Julianne’s story
The Sherwood Club has been a lifesaver for Julianne and her whānau. The staff are amazing and so warm and caring. It’s provided a “home away from home” for Julianne’s mother, Gwen, who has dementia mate wareware and it’s been “wonderful for Mum, and wonderful for us,” Julianne says.
The Sherwood Club is a day facility run by Alzheimers Gisborne. It provides a social setting and cognitive stimulation activities for people with dementia mate wareware. The staff and volunteers provide a variety of interactive games, discussions and activities, interspersed with visiting entertainers, to make each day varied and interesting.
Gwen was diagnosed in 2020 very soon after her husband passed away. It was at that point the whānau started to “see things” about their Mum that worried them.
“It was really hard, not knowing what to do. We had so many questions and did a lot of research. Once we made contact with all the services that were available to Mum things fell into place and everyone has been very helpful. We also found so many others are on the same journey, even though everyone’s is different.”
This is where Alzheimers organisations, like Alzheimers Gisborne/Tairāwhiti are especially important. By providing not only day programmes, but expert help to navigate all the different aspects of living with dementia, our services are vital for people living with dementia mate wareware and their whānau.
“It’s enriching for Mum, there’s music and dancing, they make things – there’s always lots going on, and because of her dementia, she meets someone new every day,” Julianne says, smiling.
“She’s mischievous, but fun and she’s still our Mum, despite the dementia!”